Lexus ES 250
2.5L Dynamic Force naturally aspirated — the non-hybrid version used in the ES 250. Dual injection, high thermal efficiency, smooth operation. Minor oil consumption documented on some units but rarely problematic. A fundamentally simple, efficient engine. 207 hp is adequate for the ES 250 but this is a Camry engine in a luxury sedan — adequate, not inspiring.
2.5L naturally aspirated — adequate and anonymous
207 hp in a luxury sedan is honest but unexciting. The A25A-FKS is a Camry engine in a nicer wrapper. Dual injection keeps maintenance low. No turbo, no hybrid complexity. The ES 250 exists for buyers who want Lexus build quality, reliability, and nothing else. The ES 350 with the V6 is worth the premium.
Engine Weaknesses 1
Some A25A-FKS units exhibit higher-than-expected oil consumption due to piston ring design. Typically manifests around 50,000-80,000 miles. Not all units are affected. Monitor oil level between changes.
Symptoms: Oil level drops between changes, no visible leaks, may trigger low oil warning
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
Fuel pump impeller deforms from excessive fuel absorption, causing the pump to fail. Part of the massive Toyota/Lexus recall affecting 1.8 million vehicles. Affects 2019-2020 ES 350 and ES 300h production. Dealer replaces fuel pump assembly at no charge. Settlement approved December 2022 for affected owners.
CarPlay and Android Auto occasionally disconnect. Bluetooth pairing drops on some units. Software updates have improved stability over time. The touchscreen itself is a major improvement over the previous generation's touchpad. Most issues are software-fixable.
Front tires may wear unevenly or faster than expected. Soft lower control arm bushings flex under braking, causing slight toe changes. Regular alignment checks recommended. Rotation per the manual (front-to-back, not cross-rotation) extends tire life. Not unique to the ES — documented across Lexus sedans with similar suspension geometry.
Whistling from rear left quarter window at highway speeds. TSB L-SB-0031-22.
Abnormal clunking from front suspension, especially front left. Loose stabilizer link nut. TSB L-TT-0266-19.
The ES is tuned for maximum comfort, which means body roll in corners and disconnected steering feel at the limit. This is by design, not a defect. F Sport models with adaptive dampers significantly improve feedback. Non-F Sport models float over bumps but feel detached on twisty roads.